Hollow Hero

by DarkPhoenixKing

Hundreds of years after a tragedy that never should have happened. A young Izuku Midoriya finds himself on a path haunted by love, loss, and the roars of creatures beyond the mortal coil. Let us see if he can become... the Hollow Hero.

3. Opening Up

Izuku awoke the next morning, and did his usual ritual. Clean up, get dressed, grab Izuka's pill and hide it in the tiny chibi midnight clip-on he hollowed out before clipping it to his bag, and breakfast. Everything was going along as normal as could be… until he heard voices just before heading out of his room to eat. When he went to investigate, Izuka saw Reiko and Pony sitting with his mom, and having a nice conversation. At first Izuku wanted to grumble and ask why they were there, but then he heard his mom laugh, and he noticed how happy she seemed, so he just leaned against the wall. After a few minutes though, Izuku smirked, and started raising the temperature in the room. Slowly all three started to sweat, until finally Inko turned to check the thermostat, and froze. She chuckled a bit, "Um, good morning Izuku. How did you sleep?"

Izuku just smiled, and cut his slow release of heat, so the room would cool down slowly, "I slept fine Mom. I was just about to grab something to eat when I noticed we had visitors, and it would have been rude to interrupt."

Inko just laughed, "Don't be like that, mini Might. Reiko-chan was just introducing me to Tsunotori-chan, and she has an open invitation, so don't act so grumpy. I made you a few of those breakfast burritos you like. They're in the bag on the counter, and your water bottles are in the fridge."

Izuku gave his mom a hug and kissed her on the head, "Thanks mom. Red for pre, blue or post, and green all day, right?" Inko giggles and nodded, making Izuku cheer, "Yosh, you're the best mom." Izuku checked his watch and sighed, "I'm running late! Gotta go Mom, byee."

Izuku started to dash away at a speed only slightly faster than human, but noticed a duo of girls chasing him before he had reached the bottom of the stairs. Smirking, Izuku started to increase his speed gradually forcing his tails to speed up as well. After a couple blocks he sensed a shift and noticed out of the corner of his eye Reiko now riding on Pony's back. Seeing the competitive joyous smirk on the horned girl's face, Izuku felt both of his tenants whispering and pushing. Lobo with a feeling of playful competitiveness to match, and Entei with a burning desire to prove they were the best. As such, Izuku felt his body lighten as he barely restrained the lightning even as the fiery aura of Entei made itself known… and he let his fire run wild.

Pony watched in awe as Izuku's form started to waver again as the heat coming off of him was causing a slight shimmer, and then she felt a pop of truly stifling heat, and he was gone. Only a small point of melted asphalt to indicate his last step before disappearing. Pony stopped in awe of the power she felt for a split second, and felt a new warmth tightness in her chest. After a moment Reiko actually laughed at her friend's stunned reaction, and started to guide her to their destination.

By the time they arrived, Izuku had already changed into his teaching gi, and began warming up for his Tuesday morning class. Maybe it was seeing the teen in his black gi, so similar to the shihakusho, but for a moment Pony saw him wearing a captain's hairi, and the warm feeling returned to her chest. Pony had to slap herself, and shake her head a bit to clear the vision, but the warmth remained. Taking a closer look, Pony noticed Izuku wasn't wearing a colored belt to denote rank, only a red sash. Turning to Reiko she asked, "Shouldn't he be wearing his rank? Is that not a thing anymore?"

Before Reiko could answer, a girl walked up in a similar gi to Izuku's, but she wore her belt with pride, a black belt with five red marks or dons, "No, you're right. He should wear it, but since we each have different areas of discipline we merge all of our levels together to determine our 'level of mastery'. Midoriya-dono, just doesn't like to flaunt his. He says it's to not intimidate his students, but I think he just doesn't like the attention."

Pony snorted, a bit of annoyance in her tone, "And you are?"

The girl laughed, "You can call me Kendo-sensei. My grandfather owns and runs this gym. Until he retires, he's the only Kendo-dono this place needs." Reiko nods a hello and Kendo bows slightly back, "I'm guessing since you're here with Yanagi-san, you're just here to watch? Well you picked a good day for it. He should show up soon for his monthly challenge, and it's always a fun show."

Reiko's eyes widened, "Is it that time already?! Yosh! Pony this is great. You were complaining he didn't draw his blade when you challenged him, this could be your chance to see why I said you got lucky."

Itsuka gave the duo a concerned look, "What do you mean you chal-"

That's when they heard a slamming sound, and saw a green mantis-like teen come stomping in shouting, "GET OUT HERE YOU COWARD! STOP HIDING BEHIND YOUR GREEN DOG AND FACE ME! I'M HERE TO FINALLY CLAIM YOUR BANNER, AND YOU WON'T ESCAPE ME THIS TIME!"

Itsuka chuckled and walked over to the teen, "Good morning, Kamakiri. Sadly, the master stepped away, but you know the deal by now, and you agreed to it the first time you came. If you want to fight my grandfather you have to beat his best student first, and since you chose the way of the blade, that's Midoriya-dono, but you do realize this is your last challenge right? If you lose this time… you know what will happen?"

Kamakiri growled lowly, "Of course, but I WILL win so it doesn't matter. Now take me to the green speed bump… I have a dojo to crush." Itsuka just bowed as she continued to smile, and led the teen away.

Reiko took Pony's hand and started to lead her in another direction, "Come on! It's going to begin soon."

The duo soon found themselves on a slightly raised section, overlooking the small sparring ring. Just below them were the full capacity of the dojo's students sitting in witness to the challenge, but none of them seemed worried. Sitting in his place with his wooden blade before him was Izuku as he took slow calming and focusing breaths. After another minute Kamakiri, in a blue gi, came stomping out, but once he reached his beginning place he smirked, "This is my last chance, so we are going to do this right." Kamakiri looked to Itsuka and tossed her his wood sword, even as a blade formed in his other hand. "No holding back!"

Izuku sighed, "You may use your blade if that is what you wish, but it will not help you. I will stick with mine. Regardless of your attitude, I don't wish to harm more than your pride."

Kamakiri scoffed, "You're serious? You're going to fight me with kindling? This will be fast indeed." Both teens bowed, and took up their stances, but only Reiko and Pony felt the pressure change… the subtle shift in temperature.

Kamakiri made the first move, intending to not waste time and energy, but he was shocked when the green teen not only parried his blade, he did so without damaging his bokken or even opening his eyes. Despite making his attacks at a speed slow enough to block, Kamakiri felt the weight of each hit as he was forced to parry the wooden blade with his steel, and more troubling Izuku taught with every strike. "Kama, tighten your guard. Kama, correct your stance. Kama, focus! You're letting your blade slack." Kamakiri was used to the odd habit of the green teen, but it didn't make him any happier about it. The fact that he was being 'taught' even during a match where a single mistake could end in bloodshed, irked the mantis, but the fact the greenette seemed completely unbothered with his eyes still shut was the thing that truly got under his skin.

Kamakiri took a step back, and as if he could sense his opponent's intention, Izuku didn't follow. Flexing his other hand, Kamakiri created a second blade, but if Kamakiri expected surprise, he didn't get it. Izuku just smiled, and opened his eyes for the first time in any of their matches. With the assistance of a second weapon to track, Kamakiri seemed to regain his momentum. He took the lead, and strike after strike he pressed Izuku back, but never once did he succeed in breaking Izuku's block, or gaining any real opening. After another minute of blocks, Kamakiri grumbled, "How?! That bokken should be a shaved toothpick after catching so many strikes, but it doesn't even look weathered or scratched."

Izuku just continued to smile, "Just because my blade is not steel, it does not mean it isn't as sturdy as my will. As long as my will is steel, the blade doesn't matter. I could counter your with uncooked pasta, and it would have the same effect. A blade is only as sturdy as its wielders will… let me demonstrate." With a rapid series of strikes, Izuku not only sent Kamakiri's blades wide, but with a powerful blow to each, he snapped them like dry twigs. With the tip of his bokken to Kamakiri's throat, Izuku sighed, "You have so much potential, but you've allowed your ego to blind you. We will correct this… my student." Izuku removed the blade.

Kamakiri bowed his head, "As you wish… Midoriya-sensei."

Turning to his students, a group of eleven in a particular section each bearing a standard bokken with a green wrap to its grip, Izuku nodded, "Let me introduce our newest brother, Togaru Kamakiri. Together we will show the world that the Battle Fist dojo, and our Moeru kotei (Blazing Emperor) style is one without equal. We do not fight for ourselves, but to protect those who need us. Raise your Battle Fists, and feel the fire in your hearts! Am I understood?!"

All of the students around the room stood and raised their fists, including Kamakiri, as they yelled, "YES, MIDORIYA-DONO!" With a nod, Izuku rested his bokken against his shoulder and walked away, leaving a room full of impassioned students behind him as he went to prepare for school.

The reapers just watched the whole display in awe, until Pony turned to Reiko and punched her in the shoulder, "Six months! Six months you were here, and not once did you suspect he was a reaper? How?"

Reiko rubbed her shoulder and pouted, "To be honest… I got distracted. The effects the wave had on the living world are extraordinary, and documenting how far these 'heroes' have come… ya, my bad."

Itsuka walked over to the whispering duo with a smile, "So, did you enjoy the demonstration? We're always on the lookout for another challenger. Just so you know though… I'm not as kind as Zuku. He likes to teach while he fights, but real lessons can only be learned by finding a rival." Itsuka chuckled, "It's one of the reasons I'm so thankful he strolled in here all those years ago. Best rival a girl could ask for."

Pony looked at the ginger girl in shock, "You spar with him regularly? You can actually counter that?"

Itsuka let out a belly laugh, "Sword fight, Izuku? Oh kami no! Are you insane? Izuku is the best duelist here by a wide margin. That's why he's the lead instructor for kenjutsu. I handle hand to hand fighting. Our Judo, karate, and Muay Thai infused style we call Battle Fist is my specialty. It was created by my grandparents, and I make it my business to truly master it. Izuku's Moeru kotei is his own style he created over the years based on a bunch of styles, or so he brags, but Ojii-dono lets him teach it to those interested. So, what do you say? Want to join?"

Before Pony could answer, they heard Izuku walk up and sigh, "Don't bother, Suka. This little ram is too much to handle. We'd better head off to school if we don't want to be late. I'll see you later, Suki-neesan." Itsuka blushed and grumbled, but Izuku had already hooked the reaper duo's arms and started walking away.

For the next few minutes, the trio just walked. Izuku didn't seem like he was in any kind of rush, and Pony was just staring at him, like she was trying to figure something out. Eventually Izuku sighed, "What's got your horns smoking this time Pony?"

Pony grumbled, "You! You don't make any sense to me. You're all cool and flippant most of the time, but then you become this serious wise master in the dojo. You tease and mock, but when I said I'd stand by the bet you got flustered and then depressed. I just don't get it. Who are you, really?"

Izuku sped up a bit, so both girls were forced to follow his back, but he answered sounding a bit melancholy, "You have a point, little ram. Who is Izuku Midoriya? Maybe he's the teacher, who loves to see his students grow. Maybe the son, who just wants to make his mother proud. Maybe the friend, who loves to see people smile or squirm in good natured ways." Izuku sighed, "Or is he the lonely child? The one his father didn't care enough to meet. The one with secrets that mean he can never be honest with anyone. The one who has nobody, because it's safer that way." Izuku laughed, "In the end… I'm nobody. I'm the teacher, the son, and the child… but I'm also none of them because in the end each will be remembered, but I will not. I'll see you both later." With that Izuku just disappeared in a static crackle.

Pony just stood there in shock until Reiko gave her a bonk on her head with her bag, "Nice going, Pony."

Pony rubbed her head, "Firstly, OW. Second, how was I supposed to know that would trigger him? Ugh, now I have even more questions. This sucks."

When they arrived at Aldera they found a confused blond standing outside looking troubled. When he saw them, Katsuki stomped up to Reiko with a growl, "Somethings wrong with Deku, and I want to know what. You follow him around all the time, Spook. Tell me." It wasn't a question, and he clearly expected an answer, but Reiko just looked away.

Pony moved to get between them, "I don't know who you think you are, but you need to back off. It's my fault Izuku is like this, so why don't you leave my friend alone."

Katsuki snorted and his face twisted into a scowl, "In that case… I hope you can dodge fucking Cow." Katsuki came rocketing forward and nearly slammed his explosive right fist into Pony's face. Pony managed to dodge and roll away at the last moment, but she felt the power and pressure of Katsuki's attack, and it made her smile.

Throwing her bag to Reiko, Pony rolled her shoulders and slammed her fists together a few times before giving the scowling boy a hungry smile, "Bring it then you angry dog, but you better give me everything you have, or I'm going to crush you under hoof." They charged each other and to Katsuki's surprise, Pony met his punch and clashed it with one of her own. The resulting explosion pushed both back a bit, and Pony chuckled, "Is that all you've got? This is nothing compared to back home. I had three older brothers. You're going to have to try a lot harder if you want to try to push me around." Pony charged again, and Katsuki was forced to try to weather the hail of punches that came down on him like rain, but he did. Each blow stung, but they were nothing compared to Izuku's. They were bee stings compared to the only person Katsuki considered a rival, and this bitch hurt him.

Katsuki let his rage rise, and let his muscles tense even more. He started to sweat even harder, and finding a gap in the flow of blows, Katsuki made his move. He flexed his hand and slammed his palm toward her sternum as he made the accumulated sweat combust with a thunderous boom that sent Pony skidding and rolling away. Katsuki roared, "Call me a dog all you like, Cow Bitch, but I'M TOP DOG AND DON'T YOU FORGET IT! I WILL WIN. I WILL CONQUER, AND I WON'T STOP UNTIL THE WORLD BOWS BEFORE ME! BUT TO DO THAT I HAVE TO OVERCOME SHITTY DEKU, AND YOUR IN MY WAY. FUCK OFF AND- *ugh*"

Katsuki was cut off as a horn came rocketing toward him, and slammed him in the gut. Pony smirked as she tried to regain her breath, and continued to fire horn after horn at Katsuki. The boy growled and thrust his palms out toward each like he were swatting gnats as he exploded horn after horn into dust that came flying at him. After a full minute, they were both panting, and Katsuki's uniform was covered in numerous small tears that hide small cuts and bruises, while the chest of Pony's uniform was heavily scorched and barely maintaining her modesty, not that she noticed.

Each came charging at each other for one final attack, when suddenly a green blur appeared between them, and caught both of their faces, and slammed them into the ground, knocking them out. Izuku grumbled, and Reiko chuckled. Izuku said nothing, but threw Katsuki and Pony over his shoulders as he carried them to the nurse. Reiko just smiled and made a few notes in her book, "Interesting."

When Pony woke up fifteen minutes later she was on an unfamiliar cot, and appeared to be in some kind of treatment room. When she looked around she saw Katsuki sitting and scowling on his own cot, and before she could ask anything he spoke in an agitated grumble, "What did you do to him… Izuku? He just… he ignored me this morning and just walked away instead of fighting me. HE ALWAYS FIGHTS BACK! So, what did you do?"

Pony sighed, "I went with him to his dojo. I saw him training his students. It… confused me. Any other time, Izuku is down right flippant or dismissive, but… when he teaches he seems like a whole different person. Focused, attentive, stern but kind… I couldn't make sense of it, so I asked him about it, but he just seemed sad and ran off. I just want to understand him, and… why are you looking at me like that?"

Katsuki was staring at Pony in open mouthed shock, the anger momentarily forgotten, "He let you watch? He took you to the Battle Fist? After one fucking day… you have no idea, do you? Deku doesn't take anyone there. Sure he puts up fliers and everyone knows where it is, but nobody goes there. The last guy who tried was stopped at the door, and thrown out by Man hands. That isn't just any dojo. You have to be invited to even get through the door. It might seem run down, but it might be the top dojo around that isn't privately run by a hero. Izuku and the Kendo's have put a lot of work into making that place into a solid business. I didn't even get an invite until a few years ago, and I've known the nerd since we were born. How are you this close to him? What are you suddenly dating or something?"

Pony looked away and blushed, "We spared last night… made a dumb bet, and now…" Pony sighed, "We have a friend date on Friday." Katsuki suddenly laughed, and Pony got a frustrated pout, "What's so funny, dog?"

Katsuki just continued to laugh, "You're so full of shit! There's no way you two are going on any kind of date."

Pony scowled and growled back, "What, do you think I'm not good enough?! Fuck you, and-"

Katsuki just waved her off, "You've got this all wrong. Izuku doesn't date anyone. He's probably been asked out, confessed to, or swarmed by more than a few dozen girls… and a few guys, over the years, but not once has he ever given any of them the time of day. Listen, you're cute and all, if you're into feisty short girls, but there's no way. He doesn't date anyone, and it wouldn't matter if you were Stars and Stripes herself, that wouldn't matter to him. I hate to admit it, but he's basically my brother, and as the person who knows him best, I just can't see it."

Pony huffed, "Well it's true. He said something about having a job this Friday. Invited me to go see a good fight, I don't know."

Katsuki froze, and looked at Pony, "Oh shit. You're not joking or lying, are you? Well… FUCK. Congratulations, I guess."

Pony scoffed, "Whatever. I just wish… You said you've known him for years? Maybe you can help. Who is he? Like I just want to, I don't know, see the real Izuku, and not the mask he puts on for everyone else."

Katsuki chuckled, "Ugh, you've got it bad."

Pony growled and pouted again, "Shut it! Are you going to help or not?"

Katsuki sighed with a smile, "I'd be a shitty friend if I didn't."

Izuku seemed to ignore or run away from the reapers for the rest of the week, so they just focused on hunting the Hunter or hollow 11-9-14-7, but without any luck. In fact the area seemed absent of all spirits, which was incredibly unusual, and Izuku had said he spoke to some regularly, but Reiko couldn't remember seeing any in the months she had been in the area. When classes ended on Friday, Pony found a note from Izuku giving her a time and place to meet, but nothing else, and it annoyed her. Pony could admit she messed up, but this cloak and dagger stuff was getting frustrating.

Just before dusk, Pony showed up on the roof Izuku told her to wait on, and only had to wait a couple minutes before she heard the tell-tale static of Izuku's arrival. Pony turned to give him a piece of her mind, but it caught in her throat when she saw him. Izuku was in a red dress shirt and black dress pants. A black belt with a silver tiger buckle around his waist, and his hair tied back and combed into a clean business style top knot. The only thing that remained of his usual clothing were his red sneakers. Pony almost missed the backpack Izuku was carrying. Izuku let out a small amused snort at Pony's reaction and rolled his eyes, "Like what you see? The boss for this job has a dress code, and it's good money." Izuku dug around in his bag and pulled out some clothes. "This building is abandoned. I use a few like it as drop points, so take these and get changed inside. I have to stand out because I'm playing bouncer, but it would be better if you didn't."

Pony nodded and dashed inside, but once she did, Pony let out a long breath, "Ok, I can do this. So what if he's hot. This is just a hangout, not a real date. Calm down, and focus. You're a proud member of squad eleven, not some backwoods farm girl." Pony centered herself, and looked at the clothes. She saw a dark green hoodie, and black jeans. The only thing odd was the symbol on the back of the hoodie, a roaring skeletal tiger mask surrounded by flames… it looked almost like a hollow mask. Pony pushed that thought aside and got dressed. When she was done, Pony felt a little awkward in the oversized hoodie, but looking in the mirror. Pony thought she looked cute, so she walked back out.

Izuku nodded, and smirked at her, "Wasn't sure if it would work, but you look really cute in my hoodie." Pony blushed, until she noticed Izuku gave her a stern look, "So here are the rules. My mark should keep people from giving you any trouble unless you invite it, so no smart remarks, or fighting. The place we're going is rough, and the regulars won't think twice about killing a lost little girl. I know you're tough, but these guys play for keeps. I'm trusting you to not make me step in. After the main event, I'll find you, and we can go get something to eat. I'm serious, Pony. We need to be careful. Also, no real names. Until we get clear my name is Entei. You got that little ram?"

Pony wanted to roll her eyes or scoff, but something about the pleading seriousness of Izuku's stare made her rethink doing so, "Ok, Entei. This sounds dangerous though. Are you sure you'll be alright?"

Izuku laughed, "Aww, you're worried about little old me? Don't be. The only one in any danger is them. Pony… no matter what happens, I'll protect you. I promise." Pony just blushed and nodded, as they dashed away.

As they dashed, Pony saw Izuku pull out a tiger mask and put it on. Even if she knew it was fake, seeing Izuku in a 'hollow mask' didn't scare her for some reason. Upon reaching an abandoned warehouse, Izuku pulled up Pony's hood and took her arm. When they got close they saw two figures in domino masks waiting for them, and one scoffed, "Well if it isn't the infamous Entei. Come for another chance at the title?"

Izuku growled, "Your boss hired me for extra security. Have a problem with it, ask Chisaki."

The other guard scowled, "And the girl?"

Izuku scoffed, "A fan. She's my plus one, so I better not see any of you getting handsy, unless you want to know what it feels like to have your organs cooked while you're still breathing."

Pony stayed silent with her head down. The pure hate and disdain she heard in Izuku's voice made her shudder. This was not the cute teen, or stern teacher she'd seen before. Entei was a warrior. A seasoned killer, and it felt wrong somehow. He was too dark and lethal to be the goofy playful guy she had met earlier that week. All the same, she held onto his arm as it finally sank in that Izuku's warning was not an idle one. These were bad people, but that only raised the question. How did Izuku get wrapped up in all this?

As soon as they got inside, Izuku gave Pony a card, and told her to have fun, but don't place any bets, and only drink sealed drinks. Pony nodded, but before he left Izuku gave her a flirty wink, and kissed her hand. The place Pony found herself in was lively and as she walked deeper she saw a large cage with a fight ring inside. The place was full of people of all types ranging from suits and ties to filthy work shirts. When a woman in a domino mask stopped her, Pony got a bit worried, but she just asked if she wanted a drink before opening a small bag to show it was bigger on the inside, and full of various cans. Pony nodded, and handed the woman the card Izuku gave her. The woman seemed shocked for a moment, but swiped it through a reader on her belt before handing Pony a chilled peach sweet tea.

After another ten minutes a man in a black bird mask appeared and bowed to the crowd, "Welcome friends and fight fans. We have a trio of blood baths to titillate your hunger for carnage. As you all know by now, the first two are call outs from the Hell Bracket, but it's that time again… some poor fool thinks they're man enough to challenge our Titan of Testosterone and King of the Cage, Rappa." The crowd cheered and went wild. After a moment the birdman continued, "The bets have been counted, so up first we have Sid the Slayer versed Polly Pox. Let's get this slaughter underway."

The birdman bowed again, and walked away as two figures entered the cage. One was a thin wiry man covered in blades like armor, and the other a plump woman in a gaudy yellow dress and sickly black skeletal fingers. There was a sudden bell and the man rushed his opponent with a pair of curved knives. The woman managed to dodge and dance away for the most part, but still earned a number of thin bleeding gashes for her trouble. This continued for a while until the woman scoffed and palmed the man's face. Suddenly the air was filled with the smell of rot and decay as he went limp and fell back, his face covered in boils and bleeding sores. Pony was sickened. She was aware that some considered such trickery to be a valid strategy, heck it was Captain Kurotsuchi's until he was locked away, but she had never liked it.

As the woman walked away and a couple of masked men took Sid away to see a medic, the bird man returned, "Well it looks like Sid just dropped to eighty-third, but let's hear a cheer for our new number eighty-two, Polly Pox. Up next we have our number twenty-one, The Manotaur, versus the gatekeeper of the top twenty, Sergeant Steel. We'll keep the betting pool open for another five minutes, but once you hear the bell the blood will flow." Once he was done, two new figures entered the cage and started circling and flexing for the crowd. Manotaur was a six foot slab of muscle with dark ebony skin, a pair of bull horns, and a large gold ring in his nose. Manotaur came out in only a pair of boxing trunks, and much to her horror, he saw her in the crowd and winked at her. Sergeant Steel on the other hand, came out with a pair of camouflage pants, and a camouflage sleeveless tee. He walked around with his black shades still on, and his flat top hair perfectly in place.

That was five of the most uncomfortable minutes of Pony's life. Manotaur just seemed to stare at her no matter what she did, and the possessive predatory look in his eye was not a good sign, in her opinion. Pony was actually thankful when the bell went off and Steel decked him in the face with a metal covered fist. Sadly, that was the only hit Steel got on him. Manotaur spent the next three minutes landing heavy blows to Steel's face and gut. He only stopped when he landed an impressive uppercut to Steel's chin and knocked him out flat. Normally, such a display of skill and power would excite Pony, but she didn't like how he looked at her… it made her feel exposed, naked and dirty.

When the bird mask came back, he held up Manotaurs arm, and announced to the crowd, "What an upset! Since he made it to the top twenty, Manotaur here has earned a wish. So what will it be, big guy? Money, booze, a challenge… what's your wish?"

Manotaur laughed in a deep tone, as he raised his hand and pointed, "I want her."

A pair of masked men suddenly grabbed Pony by the arms, and started dragging her away, but then froze when they noticed the mark and backed away letting everyone see it. The bird mask scoffed, "Sorry big guy, that one is claimed. If you want her, you know the rules."

Manataor laughed, "Then, I challenge the fool who claimed her. I've been looking for someone to keep me warm, and she looks…" He licks his lips, "Perfect." Every fiber of Pony's body screamed to run. A part of her screamed that she could take him, but… losing would have steep consequences. Too steep to risk. Pony tried to run away, but four masked men grabbed her and held her still.

Suddenly the room grew incredibly hot and charged with electricity, and she heard Izuku's voice, "You have three seconds to let her go, before I burn you alive." The four men trembled and backed off at Izuku's approach. Reaching down, Izuku helped Pony up, and whispered, "Are you ok? I'm so sorry. I didn't think this would happen."

Pony smiled weakly, "I'm fine. This isn't my first underground pit fight. Just… go kick his ass, ok?"

Izuku nodded, but before he could move away, Pony hugged him, and he returned it. Stepping away, Izuku walked toward the cage, and shouted, "As the higher ranked fighter, I set the rules. You want my girl, well you better be prepared to kill for her. As rank ten, I declare this a deathmatch. Forfeit your challenge or your life. Your choice."

The bird mask guy ran as fast as he could to escape the cage at those words, but Manotaur just laughed, "I accept. Once I'm done breaking you, I'm going to spend all night breaking your whore… might even turn her into a broodmare. What do you say to that?"

As Izuku threw his shirt to Pony, and the door closed behind him Izuku let out a roar, "I am Entei, the Flame Emperor. You dare challenge me! Try to take what is mine! Your death will be agonizing."

The bell rang, and Manotaur attacked with a flurry of punches, and Pony was horrified as Izuku didn't even try to block them. Blow after blow rained down on Izuku, but he didn't flinch or move, instead Manotaur screamed out in pain as everyone saw his hands covered in burns and smoking. Izuku barely moved as he threw a weak jab at Manotaur's exposed gut covered in emerald flames, and everyone heard the sizzle of meat and fat as that weak jab landed like a wrecking ball. Manotaur staggered back clutching his gut, and roared as he charged at Izuku trying to gore him with his horns, but Izuku didn't move. He just tightened his fist, and condensed so much green flame into it, it looked like an emerald star. Everyone watched as Manotaur's horns skewered Izuku's shoulders, but once more Izuku did not react to any pain. Instead he slammed his glowing fist into Manotaurs chin resulting in two snaps. The first being the horns buried in Izuku's shoulders as they broke at their base, the second… was Manotaurs neck as his head was thrown back fiercely and nearly knocked off.

Izuku ripped out the horns, and roared, "This is the cost of hubris. Anyone else want to try to steal from me?"

The room went silent until a clap was heard as a huge man with light brown hair approached the cage before turning around, "Sadly, my opponent seems to be a coward, so this will have to do… unless. Entei, feel like putting on a show for these people?"

Izuku laughed, "And fight you, Rappa, hell no. I haven't earned that challenge yet. You're just going to have to be patient, number one."

Rappa rolled his eyes, "Fine, little Emperor, take your woman and go have some fun. I'll make sure you're paid."

Izuku bowed, "Thanks. I think I'll do that." Izuku walked out of the cage, and people moved out of his way, as he scooped up Pony and walked away. The whole time Izuku made sure to hide her face from any of the curious onlookers. This was already a bad situation, he didn't need anyone being able to identify her face.

Once they were far enough away, Izuku let Pony go, and fell to his knees tearing off his mask, "I'm so sorry, Pony. I had no idea this would happen. I'm such a moron. I never should have risked you like that. I just thought you might like to see a fight or two, and Rappa is actually a great fighter, so I thought you might like it, but… ugh. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Now you probably hate me, and-"

Pony rapped him on the head with her knuckles, "Izuku. Shut up. You didn't do anything wrong tonight, but I have questions, and I expect answers. Am I understood?" Izuku nodded, and Pony smirked, "Good. Now let's go eat. I'm starving." Pony took Izuku's hand, and they started to walk.

About twenty minutes later, Izuku showed Pony a little restaurant hidden among a bunch of bigger flashier ones, and led her inside. A large man with the head of a doberman came growling from the back, "Get out! We're closed. I don't know how many times I have to tell you fools, but go the fuck-", but then he saw Izuku and immediately brighted, "Oh it's you pup. Well, why didn't you warn me you were stopping by early?"

Izuku flinched, and scratched the back of his head, "Sorry Boss Bus. Plains changed at the last minute. Pony, this is my favorite Boss, and owner of 'The Oasis Grill', Mr. Anutum Bus or Boss Bus."

Bus waved him off, "Ya, ya, problem is pup… I'm only half way through the prep, so unless you want to work your magic back here, it's going to take a bit." Bus gave Pony a once over and smirked, "Wouldn't suggest leaving your girlfriend behind though. Cute thing like that is bound to get snapped up if you do."

Bus laughed until he noticed how irritated Izuku looked. It kind of threw the older man off. In all the years he'd known the kid, he'd never seen him look angry about anything. Thankfully, Pony stepped in to smooth things over, "Well Boss, I might be cute, but I pack a punch. Pow!"

Pony faked a punch, and the older man laughed, "I like this one. She's got spirit. I'll keep her company, kid. You do your thing."

Izuku looked to Pony, who just shooed him away, and Izuku smirked, "Well, anything for you princess."

Once Izuku was gone, Bus gestured for Pony to sit, his smile having become a stern look. Pony sat while giving the man a confused look until he started to speak again, "I know what you are, little reaper, and I am aware of Izuku's situation. My family has always been strongly spiritually aware." Pony tried to interrupt, but Bus glared her into silence, "Hizashi saved my life once, and while we did not know each other long… he was a friend. That boy is like a son to me, so I'm giving you this one chance…" Bus snapped his fingers making Pony's body lock up as he drew a carving knife from his waist, "Convince me why I shouldn't gut you right now to protect him." Pony stopped struggling, and tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat. Bus growled, "Don't try to lie or trick me. My quirk, Soul Dominance, won't let you. You know your own intentions, so my quirk does as well. It only works on weak spirits, so I haven't been able to affect Izuku since he was eight, but you… you more than qualify."

Pony looked away with a feeling of rage, shame, and horror twisting in her gut. She could feel that he wasn't lying, but she didn't know how to answer or what to say. She liked Izuku, she'll admit to herself she might have a crush on him, but she had a duty to fulfill… she was doomed. Pony turned to face Bus, "The only answer I can give you is that I can't. I want to get to know Izuku. I want to be a Captain someday, but to do those things… I have to do what must be done."

Izuku stepped through the door with a platter of teriyaki beef, but when he saw what was going on, the platter clattered to the ground, and Izuku appeared between them as he stared Bus in the eye, "Boss, the fuck are you doing!? I brought her here for a nice night, not whatever this crap is." Izuku took a closer look at Pony and he snarled, "DID YOU USE YOUR QUIRK ON HER! HOW FUCKING DARE YOU!"

The room began to get incredibly hot as Izuku's rage built, but Pony cut it in a moment, "He wanted me to prove, I wouldn't hurt you. That I wouldn't betray you. I can't, because I will."

The heat stopped rising and Izuku turned with a smile, "I know, but I don't care." Everyone in the room looked at him shocked. "I want to get to know you better, and see where this goes." Izuku tapped her forehead, and Pony felt herself be released, like his power cut through the bindings. Izuku blushed, "Maybe… we can just talk for a while? You said you want to understand me. Well I want to understand you too. If you want?"

Pony didn't know what to say, so she just hugged him. After a few seconds, Bus rolled his eyes and started walking away grumbling, "Stupid. Stupid hormones. Stupid teenagers. Stupid love. I won't accept this. Don't worry Shi, I'll keep protecting your boy. No matter what."

The teens just ignored him. After Pony returned to her seat, Izuku dashed away and returned with a rack of ribs. Izuku laughed as Pony made a mess of herself as she dug into the ribs and cooed at how tender and juicy they were. Once the rack was left as a pile of bones, Izuku dashed away again, and returned with a basket of buns, a bowl of pulled teriyaki pork, and some condiments. As they made each other sandwiches, Izuku cleared his throat, "So Pony… I don't really know anything about you, so I don't know where to even start." Izuku chuckled in embarrassment and scratched the back of his head like a dog.

Pony sighed, "Let's start with something simple. What do you know about Soul Society? Namely how areas are broken up?"

Izuku thought for a moment, "From what I remember, there's the Seireitei, where the Gotai thirteen and nobles live, and Rukongai outside it made of eighty districts on each side for three hundred and twenty district's total. What I read said that the area's closest to the Seireitai are calm and nice, but the further out you go the more lawless and slum-like it becomes. That's about it."

Pony sighed, "You're right so far, but there is an area beyond that, The Wairudo Rando. These Wildlands are home to those who can't remain in even the slumiest places of Rukongai, the farmers who grow food for the Seireitai, and what few hollows that manage to hide in Soul Society. I'm from there." Pony smiled as she looked into the distance, "My family were farmers. We lived a simple quiet life for the most part. I'm the youngest of four. In order starting with the youngest is me, Colt, Mustang though he goes by Stang, and the oldest Dale."

Izuku smirked, "So after their first kid your parents named the rest after horses?"

Pony grumbled, "Dale's full name is Tsunotori Clydesdale." Izuku just blinked owlishly, and Pony blushed, "Is it better or worse if I tell you my parents' names are Fjord and Falabella?"

Izuku reached out and took Pony's hand with a stern look, "Pony, I need you to make me a promise." Caught off guard, Pony just nodded, and Izuku pleaded, "If you ever have children… Please don't give them a horse name like Orlov or Brumby!"

Pony smirked, "Now that you mention it Orlov does sound nice…"

"FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS HOLY, NO," shouted and pleaded Izuku making Pony laugh.

Pont shook her head as she continued to laugh, "I was kidding Izuku. I refuse to continue that tradition. I don't even know why Great Grandpa Holseiner started it." Izuku sighed, and ate one of Pony's sandwiches that had sharp cheddar and pickles on it. It wasn't bad in his opinion. Izuku handed Pony a sandwich with a bit of honey thinly spread over the bread and Pony nodded her thanks before she continued, "As the youngest I had to be tough, and as the only girl I had to prove I could do anything my brothers could, so I worked harder and longer then any of them." Pony's smile suddenly faded into a sad frown, "When I was six, our home was attacked by a hollow with a bird mask and six powerful arms. We managed to drive it off, but it nearly ended us. The farm was in ruins, and we barely made enough to survive. The next year, things were even tighter, so I made a choice. I left. I had a little bit of reiryoku, and I thought I could make it on my own. Without me, my family wouldn't need nearly as much, and they survived. I managed to send a message a couple years ago to make sure."

Izuku gave Pony's hand a light squeeze, "I'm sorry, Pony."

Pony shook her head, "No. It all worked out. Sure I had to live in the slums for a bit, but I made it to Shin'ò Academy, and I met my best friends there. I trained hard and joined Squad Eleven. I managed to send some money back to my folks, and Ibara's family has an exclusive deal to supply a number of restaurants in Seireitai with my family's produce. Things worked out…"

Izuku stood up and hugged Pony even as she teared up, "You miss them, don't you?" Pony couldn't answer through the lump in her throat and sniffles, so she just nodded. Izuku just held her and gently pet Pony's head as he sighed, "I guess it's my turn. Because of my dad's genetics, I was declared quirkless when I was four, and I started getting bullied. It's probably hard to imagine, but back then Katsuki and his friends used to beat me up all the time. The beatings continued till I was six, and they abandoned me in the woods. I got lost, and that was the first time I saw a hollow."

Pony froze and looked at Izuku in shock, "How did you survive?"

Izuku looked away, "A friend sacrificed themselves to help me kill it, but from then on… I was changed. I started training, and doing what I could to help my mom. I found the Kendo's, Boss, and others, and they helped me grow. I've had to do a lot of things I didn't enjoy, like what happened earlier, but I did them, because I owed it to him, my mom, and myself to get as strong as I could be."

Pony smiled, and buried her face in Izuku's chest. After a while Izuku went back to his seat, and they continued to chat about things they liked or disliked. Both recognized they were still holding hands, but neither wanted to stop or let go, so they didn't. When it started getting late, Izuku walked Pony home under the stars. It was a calm night, and they were both feeling giddy at being able to experience it together. Before Izuku could leave, he gave Pony a mock bow, but Pony got the last laugh as she took the chance to catch his face, and give him a small kiss on the cheek before she disappeared inside.

The whole way home Lobo teased Izuku inside his head, but they all knew the truth. Izuku was in love, but they also knew it could only end in heartbreak. He had to try though. Izuku loved the passion Pony showed, and now that he knew some of her story… Izuku found a kindred spirit. They knew what it was like to sacrifice their happiness for others, but that left the question. Which of them would sacrifice this time?

Breakdown: And that's a wrap. Another chapter on the books, and things are getting complicated for our boy. Until Tuesday… Shine on beautiful readers. Shine on.